Recent Suspensions of Tunisian Associations Highlight Growing Tensions Over Foreign Funding
The recent suspension of two Tunisian associations has brought to the forefront the issue of foreign funding of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and associations in the country.
Background
The Tunisian Association of Democratic Women (ATFD) and the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES) were suspended for a month due to an administrative infraction of Decree-Law 88, which governs the organization of associations. The two associations claim that the decision is politically motivated and part of a larger context of increased restrictions on civil society.
Foreign Funding Under Scrutiny
The issue of foreign funding has been a contentious one in Tunisia, with some arguing that it is necessary for the development of civil society, while others see it as a threat to national sovereignty. The Open Society Foundations (OSF), founded by billionaire George Soros, has been at the center of the controversy, with some accusing it of interfering in Tunisian politics.
Investigation into Undeclared Foreign Funding
A recent judicial investigation has shed light on the issue of undeclared foreign funding of Tunisian associations. The investigation was triggered by reports from the Tunisian Financial Analysis Commission (CTAF) and the Court of Auditors, which identified several associations that had received foreign funding without declaring it. The OSF was among the foreign funders identified in the reports.
Debate Over Foreign Funding
The issue of foreign funding has sparked a heated debate in Tunisia, with some arguing that it is necessary for the development of civil society, while others see it as a threat to national sovereignty. The question of how to balance the need for transparency and accountability with the need to protect national sovereignty remains a contentious one.
The Role of Foreign Funding in Shaping Tunisian Politics
Since the fall of the Ben Ali regime in 2011, Tunisia has experienced a significant increase in foreign funding of NGOs and associations. While some of this funding has been used for legitimate purposes, such as education and development, others have used it to influence Tunisian politics and shape the country's future.
The Need for Transparency and Control
The Tunisian government has introduced regulations to govern the funding of associations, including the requirement to declare foreign funding. However, many associations have failed to comply with these regulations, and the true extent of foreign funding in Tunisia remains unclear.
Risks Associated with Foreign Funding
The reliance on foreign funding poses several risks, including the dependence of NGOs on external funders, which can limit their ability to act independently. Additionally, the use of foreign funding to influence Tunisian politics and shape the country's future raises concerns about national sovereignty and the potential for foreign interference.
Conclusion
The recent suspensions of Tunisian associations have highlighted the growing tensions over foreign funding in the country. While foreign funding can be a valuable resource for NGOs and associations, it is essential to ensure that it is transparent, accountable, and does not compromise national sovereignty. The Tunisian government must strike a balance between allowing foreign funding to support the development of civil society and protecting the country's independence and sovereignty.
